The white-bearded hermit is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland tropical rainforest across much of the western and central Amazon, including terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea. Prefers dense understory with abundant tubular flowers and thickets of Heliconia and Costus. Often found along forest edges, river corridors, and in secondary growth and shaded plantations. Uses established flyways and traplines between flowering patches within its territory.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This Amazonian hermit hummingbird forages by traplining, visiting a repeated circuit of nectar sources such as Heliconia. Males often display at loose leks, where they sing and chase to attract females. Its elongated, decurved bill and long tail help it reach deep tubular flowers, making it an important pollinator. Nests are typically small cups suspended from drooping leaves, sometimes over water or along shaded stream banks.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary while feeding, following traplines between flowering plants. Males may gather in small leks to sing and perform short chases. Nests are small cups suspended from drooping leaves or palm fronds, often over streams or paths; the female handles incubation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of high, thin, squeaky notes given in rapid, repetitive sequences, often from a concealed perch. Calls include sharp chips and buzzes during chases around lek sites.
